WNBA’s 44-Game Season Kicks Off May 8 with New CBA Agreement

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WNBA’s 44-Game Season Kicks Off May 8 with New CBA Agreement

The WNBA is poised to launch its highly anticipated 44-game season on May 8, contingent on reaching a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the players’ union. This season marks the WNBA’s historic 30th anniversary, underscoring the league’s growth and evolution.

2026 WNBA Season Highlights

The schedule for this season includes a five-month play period with a notable 17-day break for the FIBA World Cup scheduled in Berlin from August 31 to September 16. The WNBA decided to maintain a 44-game format, even with the addition of two new teams in Portland and Toronto.

Commissioner’s Statement

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert remarked on the significance of the upcoming season. She emphasized that the schedule reflects the league’s journey and the positive momentum sustaining its growth. Engelbert mentioned, “This milestone season will help define the next chapter of the WNBA.”

Key Dates and Events

Training Camp: Begins April 19, six days post-college draft.
Commissioner’s Cup: Scheduled for June, with the championship game on June 30.
All-Star Game: Planned for July 25 in Chicago, with subsequent games resuming three days later.
Playoffs: Set to commence September 27.

Teams will begin selling ticket packages shortly, as the release of the season schedule is crucial for operational planning, including travel arrangements and securing arena dates. The league is hopeful to see future expansions in the number of games played, which will rely on the new CBA.

Back-to-Back Games and Schedule Adjustments

This season’s scheduling reflects a reduction in back-to-back games. The average number of back-to-back sets per team has dropped from 2.4 in 2025 to 1.6. Most teams will still play at least one series of consecutive games.

Current Status of CBA Negotiations

As negotiations for a new CBA continue, both the WNBA and the players’ union remain under a “status quo” period. This implies the existing CBA is still in effect while discussions proceed in good faith. In addition, an expansion draft for the new teams will occur as part of the off-season activities.

As the WNBA approaches its 30th season, there is excitement surrounding its expanded reach and the potential for future developments within professional women’s basketball. Fans eagerly await the start of the season while hoping for a swift resolution to the ongoing CBA negotiations.